RU2616556C2 - Aerosol generating device with air ventilation nozzles - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: machine building.

SUBSTANCE: present invention relates to aerosol-generating device for aerosol-forming substrate heating and to aerosol generating device for liquid aerosol-forming substrate heating having electric power source. Aerosol generating device includes evaporator for aerosol-forming substrate heating; plurality of air ventilation openings and, at least, one air outlet, wherein air ventilation openings and air outlet are intended, to determine air flow direction between air ventilation openings and air outlet, wherein each of plurality of air ventilation openings represents air inlet opening, intended for air direction to vicinity of evaporator in direction through evaporator surface and essentially perpendicular to device longitudinal axis, so, that to control aerosol particles size.

EFFECT: technical results of invention are increasing in aerosol cooling rate, which reduces aerosol particles average size without need for evaporator cooling, and increasing air flow vortex effect, which increases cooling rate.

15 cl, 5 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device for heating an aerosol forming substrate. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating device having an electrical energy source for heating a liquid aerosol generating substrate.

WO-A-2009/132793 discloses an electric heated smoking system. The liquid is contained in the liquid reservoir, and the capillary wick has a first end that extends into the liquid reservoir to contact the liquid therein, and a second end that exits the liquid reservoir. The heating element heats the second end of the capillary wick. The heating element is present in the form of a spirally coiled electric heating element, which is in electrical connection with a power source and surrounds the second end of the capillary wick. During use, the heating element can be activated by the smoker to switch to a source of electricity. The intake of air through the mouthpiece by the smoker causes the air to enter the electric heated smoking system through a capillary wick and heating element and then into the mouth of the smoker.

An object of the present invention is to improve aerosol formation in aerosol generating devices or systems.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising: an evaporator for heating an aerosol forming substrate; a plurality of air vents and at least one air outlet, wherein the air vents and the air outlet are intended to determine an airflow direction between the air vents and the air outlet, and each of the plurality of air vents includes an opening for supplying air in the direction to the vicinity of the evaporator, so as to control the particle size of the aerosol.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cartridge, comprising: a reservoir for storing an aerosol forming substrate; an evaporator for heating the aerosol forming substrate; a plurality of air vents and at least one air outlet, wherein the air vents and the air outlet are intended to determine an airflow direction between the air vents and the air outlet, and each of the plurality of air vents includes an opening for supplying air in the direction to the vicinity of the evaporator, so as to control the particle size of the aerosol.

The aerosol generating device and cartridge together constitute an aerosol generating system for heating the aerosol forming substrate. The cartridge or aerosol generating device may include a reservoir for storing the aerosol forming substrate. An aerosol generating device may comprise an evaporator. The evaporator may also be contained in the cartridge. A plurality of air vents can be made in an aerosol generating device or cartridge, or some of the plurality of air vents can be made in an aerosol generating device, and the remaining air vents from this set can be made in a cartridge. The air outlet can be installed in an aerosol generating device or cartridge, or if more than one air outlet is installed, then one or more air outlets can be installed in the aerosol generating device, and one or more air outlets can be installed in the cartridge.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising: an evaporator for heating an aerosol forming substrate; a plurality of air vents and at least one air outlet, wherein the air vents and the air outlet are intended to determine an air flow direction between the air vents and the air outlet, and each of the plurality of air vents includes an opening for directing air in the direction to the vicinity of the evaporator in such a way as to regulate the particle size of the aerosol, with air vents odayut air toward the vicinity of the evaporator in more than one direction.

According to all aspects of the present invention, the reservoir may be a liquid reservoir. According to all aspects of the present invention, the aerosol forming substrate may be a liquid aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol forming substrate may contain nicotine. The aerosol forming substrate may be introduced into the carrier or base by adsorption, coating, impregnation, or other means.

The aerosol forming substrate may, alternatively, be any other type of substrate, for example, a gas substrate or a gel substrate, or any combination of various types of substrates. The aerosol forming substrate may be a solid substrate.

The evaporator of the aerosol generating device or system is intended to heat the aerosol forming substrate and generate supersaturated steam. The supersaturated steam is mixed and carried in the air stream from a plurality of air vent nozzles towards the air outlet. The vapor condenses to form an aerosol that is transported towards the air outlet into the smoker's mouth. The aerosol generating device or cartridge may further include an aerosol forming chamber in the airflow direction between the plurality of air vent nozzles and the air outlet. The aerosol forming chamber may promote or facilitate aerosol formation. The aerosol generating device may include an aerosol forming substrate, or may be designed to comprise an aerosol forming substrate. As known to those skilled in the art, an aerosol is a suspension of solid particles or liquid droplets in a gas, such as air.

Each air vent is a small hole, slot or slot. Each air vent may also be a nozzle. The small size of the hole, slit or slot leads to a high air velocity through the air vent or nozzle. This is because the airflow rate can be increased by reducing the cross-sectional area of the airflow direction, so as to take advantage of the Venturi effect. That is, the air flow rate increases when the cross-sectional area decreases, and the air flow passing through the decreasing cross-section increases its speed. Each air vent or nozzle is designed to direct, propel, or make air move at high speed toward the vicinity of the evaporator. In the case of a cartridge, air vents or nozzles supply air in a direction toward the vicinity of the evaporator in more than one direction. In the case of the device, air vents or nozzles supply air in a direction toward the vicinity of the evaporator in more than one direction. A high air flow rate affects the cooling rate of supersaturated steam, which affects aerosol formation. This, in turn, affects the average particle size and particle size distribution of the aerosol. The preferred distance between the air vents or nozzles and the evaporator is small. This improves the regulation of the air flow rate, since there is little possibility of slowing the incoming air or the formation of complex turbulent flows in the air stream. Since air vents or nozzles supply air in a direction toward the vicinity of the evaporator in more than one direction, the air flow in the vicinity of the evaporator is relatively uniform. In addition, the cooling rate on all sides of the evaporator is essentially the same, which leads to a narrow size distribution of aerosol particles.

Thus, the present invention provides several advantages. Firstly, an increase in the cooling rate leads to a decrease in the average droplet size in the aerosol. This leads to an improvement in the organoleptic sensations of the smoker. Secondly, the uniformity of the air flow leads to a narrowing of the interval of particle sizes in the aerosol. This leads to a more stable aerosol, which creates a more sustainable sensation for the smoker. Thirdly, by increasing the cooling rate, the process of aerosol formation is accelerated. This means that it is possible to make an aerosol generating device and a cartridge of a smaller size, since a shorter air flow length is required for aerosol formation. The present invention provides the realization of all three advantages. In addition, a high air flow rate can also reduce the amount of condensate that can form inside the aerosol generating device and cartridge, in particular inside the aerosol forming chamber. Condensation may affect fluid leakage from the aerosol generating device and cartridge. Thus, an additional advantage of the present invention is that it can be used to reduce fluid leakage.

In one embodiment, the air vents or nozzles are air inlets or nozzles. In other words, the air vents or nozzles create the first (occupying the highest relative position in the downstream) conduit for atmospheric air drawn into the aerosol generating device or cartridge. According to this embodiment, the preferred length of the air inlets or nozzles should be reduced to a minimum, so that atmospheric air is drawn directly from the outside, as far as possible, into the aerosol generating device or cartridge towards the vicinity of the evaporator. This improves the regulation of air velocity, since there is little possibility of slowing the air flow or creating complex turbulent flows. According to this embodiment, preferably air inlets or nozzles are provided in the housing of the aerosol generating device or cartridge.

However, as an alternative, the air vents or nozzles may not be air inlets or nozzles. According to this embodiment, additional pipelines located upstream of the air vents or nozzles form inlets for atmospheric air drawn into the aerosol generating device or cartridge. Air vents or nozzles simply carry air toward the vicinity of the evaporator at high speed. This provides speed control in the vicinity of the evaporator, while making the present invention compatible with the various designs of the aerosol generating device or cartridge or system.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the air vents or nozzles includes a curved portion. This curved portion may be a curve or a corner portion. The curved part may be curved. The curved portion may be provided in one, several or all of the air vents or nozzles. It is particularly preferred if the air vents or nozzles are air inlets or nozzles, and in particular if the air vents or nozzles are provided in the housing of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. The smoker then has the opportunity to see the vaporizer or other components in an aerosol generating device or cartridge and have potential access to regulate the vaporizer or other components. The inclusion of a curved part in the air vents or nozzles prevents access to the internal components of the aerosol generating device or cartridge or system.

According to one embodiment, the air vents or nozzles are designed to supply air in the direction of the vicinity of the evaporator when using a device with a cartridge. This direction of air flow may be preferable, because it provides a high speed of air flow, passing, as a rule, parallel to the surface of the evaporator. This can increase the speed of the evaporation process. In addition, according to some embodiments, this airflow direction creates a vortex airflow, in other words, a rotating, rotating or spiral airflow in the vicinity of the evaporator. It was found that this increases the cooling rate, which reduces the average particle size in the aerosol. In addition, if the evaporator includes a heater, directing air over the surface of the evaporator rather than directly to the evaporator reduces the optional cooling of the heater. According to one embodiment, the nozzle flow guides are for supplying air along a path located at a predetermined distance from the surface of the evaporator and not directly to the evaporator. This prevents the high-velocity air stream from cooling the evaporator to a large extent, but allows the steam that leaves the evaporator to be rapidly cooled. This increases the efficiency of the aerosol generating device.

Since air vents or nozzles supply air at a high speed in more than one direction, air can be directed over the surface of the evaporator to more than one part of the evaporator. This increases the likelihood of substantially equal cooling on all sides of the evaporator, resulting in a stable aerosol formation. This also increases the vortex effect of the air flow, which increases the cooling rate.

Alternatively, air vents or nozzles may be designed to supply air in the direction of the vicinity of the evaporator directly to the surface of the evaporator. This airflow direction can extend substantially perpendicular to the surface of the evaporator. This direction of air flow may be preferable because it increases the cooling rate, which reduces the average particle size in the aerosol.

Since air vents or nozzles supply high speed airflow in more than one direction, air can be directed to more than one part of the evaporator. This increases the cooling rate, and also increases the likelihood of essentially the same cooling on all sides of the evaporator.

Air vents or nozzles may supply a high velocity air stream to the vicinity of the evaporator in any other desired direction or directions. For example, air vents or nozzles may supply air in the longitudinal direction of an aerosol generating device or cartridge. In addition, each air vent or nozzle may feed in its own respective direction. For example, one air vent or nozzle can supply air at a high speed over the surface of the evaporator, and another air vent or nozzle can supply air directly to the surface of the evaporator.

Any suitable number of air vents or nozzles may be provided. The air vents or nozzles may have any suitable cross-sectional area or diameter, which provides the desired air velocity in the vicinity of the evaporator. The cross-sectional area and the diameter of the air vents or nozzles also affect the retraction resistance. Air vents or nozzles may have the same or different cross-sectional areas and diameters. The air vents or nozzles may also have any desired cross-sectional shape, wherein the air vents or nozzles may have the same different cross-sectional shapes. Preferably, each of the air vents has a diameter of less than or approximately equal to 0.4 mm. This provides a high speed directed airflow. According to one embodiment, at a flow rate of 27.5 ml / s through the air outlet, the air flow through each of the air vents is from 10 to 30 m / s. The separation of the air vents or nozzles and the evaporator can be set according to the desired cooling rate in the aerosol generating device. Separation of air vents or nozzles and the evaporator may also affect the retraction resistance. Air vents or nozzles may be at the same or different distances from the evaporator. Air vents or nozzles may supply airflow in any direction that results in the desired movement of the airflow in the aerosol generating device or cartridge. Air vents or nozzles may supply air flow in the same or different directions.

Air vents or nozzles may be located in any suitable configuration that results in the desired cooling rate. Preferably, the air vents or nozzles are arranged symmetrically with respect to the evaporator. This leads to a uniform air flow around the evaporator, which provides a stable cooling rate and, therefore, a stable particle size in the aerosol. Preferably, the air vents or nozzles are arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. Air vents or nozzles may be arranged so that they form a plurality of sets of air vents or nozzles. Each set can be longitudinally separated from other sets. However, one, two, three, four or more sets of longitudinally divided air vents or nozzles may be provided, and each set may include one, two, three, four or more air vents or nozzles.

If air vents or nozzles are provided in the housing of the aerosol generating device or cartridge, these air vents or nozzles may be distributed circumferentially around the housing. Preferably, the air vents or nozzles are distributed symmetrically around the housing, so as to increase the likelihood that the cooling rate is substantially the same throughout the aerosol generating device and cartridge. Air vents or nozzles may be located in the longitudinal direction, forming one or more rows that are distributed along the housing. According to one embodiment, two longitudinally separated sets of air vents or nozzles are provided in the housing, and each set includes three air vents or nozzles symmetrically distributed along the circumference of the housing.

According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating device or cartridge further includes: a liquid reservoir to store a liquid aerosol forming substrate; and an elongated capillary element to move the liquid aerosol forming substrate from the liquid reservoir towards the evaporator, the capillary element having a first end extending into the liquid reservoir and a second end opposite the first end, the evaporator being intended to heat the liquid aerosol forming substrate at the second end of the capillary element.

According to this embodiment, during use, the liquid moves from the liquid reservoir under the action of capillary forces from the first end of the capillary element toward the second end of the capillary element. The liquid at the second end of the capillary element evaporates, forming supersaturated steam. Preferably, the capillary element is in contact with a liquid aerosol forming substrate in a liquid reservoir. The liquid aerosol forming substrate has suitable physical properties, including, but not limited to, surface tension, viscosity, density, thermal conductivity, boiling point and vapor pressure, which allow the liquid to move through the capillary element under the action of capillary forces.

According to this embodiment, preferably the air vents or nozzles are air inlets or nozzles. In other words, air vents or nozzles form the first (occupying the highest relative position in the flow) duct for atmospheric air that is drawn into an aerosol generating device or cartridge. Preferably, air inlets or nozzles are provided in the housing of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. Preferably, air inlets or nozzles are provided in the housing of the aerosol generating device or cartridge in the region of the second end of the capillary element and the evaporator, so that atmospheric air is drawn directly externally into the aerosol generating device or cartridge in the direction of the region of the second end of the capillary element and the evaporator .

According to this embodiment, if the air vents or nozzles are designed to supply air to the vicinity of the evaporator in the direction along the surface of the evaporator, these air vents or nozzles can be used to supply air over the surface of the capillary element. This is preferred because it prevents excessive drying of the capillary element. The elongated capillary element preferably extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device. If the aerosol generating device and / or cartridge have a circular cross section, the elongated capillary element preferably extends, as a rule, along the central axis of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. In this case, the movement of air over the surface of the capillary element can be carried out in a tangential direction with respect to the capillary element, and the circular cross section of the aerosol generating device or cartridge and nozzles can be used to supply air along a path at a predetermined distance from the capillary element at its nearest point, those. at a given height above the surface of the capillary element. The air flow may extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Alternatively, air vents or nozzles may be provided to supply air over the surface of the evaporator, but directly to the surface of the capillary element.

According to this embodiment, if the air vents or nozzles are designed to supply air in the direction of the vicinity of the evaporator directly to the surface of the evaporator, then the air vents or nozzles can be used to supply air directly to the surface of the capillary element. The elongated capillary element preferably extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. If the aerosol generating device and / or cartridge have a circular cross section, the elongated capillary element preferably extends, as a rule, along the central axis of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. In this case, the air supply directly to the surface of the capillary element can be carried out in the radial direction with respect to the capillary element and the circular cross section of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. The air flow may extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Alternatively, air vents or nozzles may be designed to supply air directly to the surface of the capillary element, but not directly to the evaporator. For example, air vents or nozzles may supply air directly to a portion of the capillary element adjacent to the evaporator. It turns out to be particularly preferred if the evaporator turns on the heater, because this reduces the cooling of the heater.

If air vents or nozzles are provided in the housing of the aerosol generating device or cartridge, these air vents or nozzles may be distributed circumferentially around the housing. Preferably, the air vents or nozzles are distributed symmetrically around the housing, so that the likelihood that the cooling rate is substantially the same throughout the aerosol generating device is increased. The elongated capillary element preferably extends in the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device or cartridge. Thus, if the air vents or nozzles are distributed symmetrically around the housing, this results in substantially the same air flow on all sides of the capillary element. Air vents or nozzles may be arranged in one or more rows, which are distributed in the longitudinal direction along the housing. According to one embodiment, two longitudinally distributed sets of air vents or nozzles are provided in the housing, and each set includes three air vents or nozzles symmetrically distributed along the circumference of the housing. However, of course, other numbers and patterns of air vents or nozzles are possible.

The capillary element may include any suitable material or combination of materials that are capable of conducting a liquid aerosol forming substrate towards the evaporator. The capillary element preferably includes a porous material, but this is not necessary. The capillary element may be in the form of a wick. The capillary element may have a fibrous or spongy structure. The capillary element preferably includes a bunch of capillaries. For example, a capillary element may include a plurality of fibers or threads, or other thin hollow tubes, and they can be generally oriented in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device or system. Alternatively, the capillary element may include a sponge-like or foam-like material that is shaped like a shaft. This rod shape can extend, as a rule, in the longitudinal direction of the aerosol generating device or system. Particularly preferred capillary materials or material will depend on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate. Examples of suitable capillary materials include sponge material or foam, ceramic or graphite-based materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamed metal or plastic materials, fibrous material, for example, made from spun or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramic fibers. The capillary material may have any suitable capillarity, so that it can be used for liquids having different physical properties.

A fluid reservoir can protect a liquid aerosol forming substrate from atmospheric air (because air, as a rule, cannot enter a fluid reservoir). The liquid reservoir can protect the liquid aerosol forming substrate from light, so that the risk of liquid decomposition is greatly reduced. In addition, a high level of hygiene can be maintained. The fluid reservoir may not be refillable. Thus, when the liquid aerosol forming substrate in the liquid reservoir is consumed, the cartridge must be replaced. Alternatively, the fluid reservoir may be refillable. In this case, the cartridge can be replaced after a certain number of refillings of the liquid reservoir. Preferably, the liquid reservoir is intended to contain a liquid aerosol forming substrate for a predetermined number of puffs.

According to a further embodiment, the liquid reservoir includes an internal channel, the evaporator passing through at least a portion of the internal channel when the device is in use with the cartridge; and the cartridge further includes a capillary connecting device at least partially occupying the internal channel to move the liquid aerosol forming substrate towards the evaporator.

According to this embodiment, during use, the liquid moves from the liquid reservoir under the action of capillary forces through a capillary connecting device that occupies an internal channel. The first side of the capillary coupling device is preferably in contact with the liquid aerosol forming substrate in the liquid reservoir. The second side of the capillary connecting device is in contact with or adjacent to the evaporator. The liquid near the second side of the capillary connecting device evaporates, forming supersaturated steam, which is mixed and transferred in the air stream through the internal channel. The inner channel of the fluid reservoir may include an aerosol forming chamber that facilitates aerosol formation. The liquid reservoir may have a cylindrical shape, and the inner channel may extend in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. Thus, the liquid reservoir may have an annular cross section. The liquid aerosol forming substrate has physical properties, including, but not limited to, surface tension, viscosity, density, thermal conductivity, boiling point, and vapor pressure, which allow the fluid to move through the capillary coupling device under the action of capillary forces.

According to this embodiment, if the air vents or nozzles are intended to supply air towards the vicinity of the evaporator directly to the surface of the evaporator, the air vents or nozzles can be designed to supply air directly to the surface of the capillary connecting device. The inner channel of the liquid reservoir preferably extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The capillary connecting device also preferably extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. If the cartridge has a circular cross section, the inner channel and the capillary connecting device are preferably symmetrical about the center axis of the cartridge. In this case, the air supply directly to the surface of the capillary connecting device can be carried out in the radial direction with respect to the internal channel, the capillary connecting device and the round cross-section of the cartridge. The air flow may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Alternatively, air vents or nozzles may be designed to supply air directly to the surface of the capillary connecting device, but not directly to the evaporator. For example, air vents or nozzles may supply air directly to the portion of the capillary connecting device that is adjacent to the evaporator.

The capillary coupling device may include any suitable material or combination of materials that are capable of moving the liquid aerosol forming substrate towards the evaporator. The capillary connecting device preferably includes a porous material, but this is not necessary. The capillary connecting device may include any suitable capillary material that is shaped like a tube. The capillary tube may extend along all or part of the length of the internal channel in the fluid reservoir. The capillary connecting device may have a fibrous or spongy structure. A capillary coupling device may include a plurality of fibers or threads, or other thin hollow tubes. Alternatively, the capillary element may include a sponge-like or foam-like material. Particularly preferred capillary materials or material will depend on the physical properties of the liquid aerosol forming substrate. Examples of suitable capillary materials include sponge material or foam, ceramic or graphite-based materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamed metal or plastic materials, fibrous material, for example, made from spun or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramic fibers. The capillary material may have any suitable capillarity, so that it can be used for liquids having different physical properties.

A fluid reservoir can protect a liquid aerosol forming substrate from atmospheric air (because air cannot typically enter a fluid reservoir). The liquid reservoir can protect the liquid aerosol forming substrate from light, so that the risk of liquid decomposition is greatly reduced. In addition, a high level of hygiene can be maintained. The fluid reservoir may not be refillable. Thus, when the liquid aerosol forming substrate in the liquid reservoir is consumed, the cartridge must be replaced. Alternatively, the fluid reservoir may be refillable. In this case, the cartridge can be replaced after a certain number of refillings of the liquid reservoir. Preferably, the liquid reservoir is intended to contain a liquid aerosol forming substrate for a predetermined number of puffs.

According to a further embodiment, the device or cartridge may further include an air inlet tube at least partially extending into the internal channel, said air inlet tube including a plurality of air vents or nozzles, and the air flow direction passing along the air inlet tube through the air vents or nozzles and to the air outlet.

Air vents or nozzles may be distributed circumferentially around the air inlet tube. Preferably, the air vents or nozzles are distributed symmetrically around the air inlet tube, so as to increase the likelihood that the cooling rate is substantially the same throughout the aerosol generating device or system. The inner channel of the liquid reservoir and the capillary connecting device preferably extend in the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The air inlet tube also preferably extends in the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the cartridge. Thus, if the air vents or nozzles are distributed symmetrically around the air inlet tube, this will result in substantially the same air flow in all parts of the capillary connecting device and the evaporator. Air vents or nozzles may be arranged in one or more rows distributed longitudinally along the air inlet tube. According to one embodiment, three longitudinally distributed sets of air vents or nozzles are provided in the air inlet tube, and each set includes three air vents or nozzles that are symmetrically distributed along the circumference of the air inlet tube. However, of course, other numbers and patterns of air vents or nozzles are possible.

The aerosol generating device or cartridge may further include an air inlet and an air flow sensor for measuring air flow through the air inlet, the secondary direction of the air flow being determined between the air inlet and the air outlet. According to this embodiment, the primary air flow passes through the air vents or nozzles, but there is also a secondary air flow through the air inlet. Preferably, the secondary air stream is small compared to the primary air stream. This allows the speed through the air vents or nozzles in the primary air flow to be high, with the air flow rate being measured by the air flow sensor in the secondary air flow. The aerosol generating device or cartridge can be calibrated in such a way that the air flow sensor in the secondary direction of air flow determines a measure of the speed of the air flow in the primary direction of air flow and, in particular, in the vicinity of the evaporator. Preferably, the secondary airflow direction bypasses the air vents or nozzles.

The evaporator may be a heater. The heater may heat the aerosol forming substrate through one or more processes, such as heat conduction, convection, and radiation. The heater may be an electric heater powered by a source of electricity. The heater may alternatively supply a non-electric source of energy, such as combustible fuel: for example, the heater may include a thermally conductive element that is heated by burning gaseous fuel. The heater may heat the aerosol forming substrate through thermal conductivity and may be at least partially in contact with the substrate or carrier onto which the substrate is applied. Alternatively, heat from the heater may be transferred to the substrate via an intermediate heat-conducting element. Alternatively, the heater may transfer heat to incoming atmospheric air, which is drawn in through the aerosol generation system during use, and which, in turn, heats the aerosol forming substrate by convection.

Preferably, the aerosol generating device is electrically controlled, and the evaporator includes an electric heater for heating the aerosol forming substrate.

An electric heater may include a single heating element. Alternatively, the electric heater may include more than one heating element, for example, two, or three, or four, or five, or six, or more heating elements. The heating element or heating elements may be arranged appropriately so as to result in the most efficient heating of the aerosol forming substrate.

At least one electric heating element preferably includes a dielectric material. Suitable dielectric materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramic materials, electrically conductive ceramic materials (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys and composite materials made from ceramic material, and metallic material. Such composite materials may include alloyed or undoped ceramic materials. Examples of suitable doped ceramic materials include doped silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, constantan, nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum, titanium, zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese - and iron-containing alloys and heavy-duty alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal®, alloys based on iron and aluminum and alloys based on iron, manganese and aluminum. Timetal® is a registered trademark of the Titanium Metals Corporation (1999 Broadway Suite 4300, Denver Colorado). In composite materials, a dielectric material can be optionally embedded, encapsulated or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the required kinetic parameters of energy transfer and external physicochemical properties. The heating element may include etched metal foil insulated between two layers of inert material. In this case, the inert material may include Kapton® polyimide or a mica foil. Kapton® is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (1007 Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19898, United States of America).

Alternatively, the at least one electric heating element may include an infrared heating element, a light source, or an inductive heating element.

At least one electric heating element may take any suitable form. For example, at least one electric heating element may be present in the form of a heated blade. Alternatively, at least one electric heating element may be present in the form of a shell or substrate having different electrically conductive parts, or a dielectric metal tube. Alternatively, the at least one electric heating element may be a disk (end) heater or a combination of a disk heater with heating needles or rods. Alternatively, the at least one electric heating element may include a flexible sheet of material. Other alternatives include a heated wire or thread, for example, a wire made of platinum, tungsten, an alloy of nickel and chromium, or another alloy, or a heated plate. Optionally, the heating element may be embedded in the volume or deposited on the surface of the solid carrier material.

At least one electric heating element may include a heat sink or heat reservoir comprising a material capable of absorbing and retaining heat and subsequently releasing heat for some time to heat the aerosol forming substrate. A heat sink can be manufactured using any suitable material, such as a suitable metal or ceramic material. Preferably, the material has a high heat capacity (variable temperature heat accumulator) or is a material capable of absorbing and subsequently releasing heat during a reversible process, such as a high temperature phase transition. Suitable variable temperature heat accumulators include silica gel, alumina, carbon, fiberglass, fiberglass, minerals, metals or alloys such as aluminum, silver or lead, as well as cellulosic materials. Other suitable materials that release heat during the reversible phase transition include paraffin, sodium acetate, naphthalene, wax, polyethylene oxide, metal, metal salt, eutectic mixtures of salts or alloys.

The heat sink can be positioned so that it is in direct contact with the aerosol forming substrate and can transfer the accumulated heat directly to the aerosol forming substrate. Alternatively, the heat that accumulates in the heat sink or heat reservoir can be transferred to the aerosol forming substrate through a heat conductor, such as a metal tube.

At least one heating element may heat the aerosol forming substrate through thermal conductivity. The heating element may be at least partially in contact with the aerosol forming substrate. Alternatively, heat from the heating element may be transferred to the aerosol forming substrate by means of a heat conducting element.

Alternatively, at least one heating element may transfer heat to incoming atmospheric air, which is drawn in through the aerosol generating device during use and which, in turn, heats the aerosol forming substrate by convection. Atmospheric air can be heated before passing through an aerosol forming substrate. Alternatively, atmospheric air may first be drawn in through the aerosol forming substrate and then heated.

However, the present invention is not limited to heating evaporators, but it can be used in aerosol generating devices and systems in which steam and the resulting aerosol produce a mechanical evaporator, for example, but not limited to, a piezoelectric evaporator or atomizer using compressed liquid.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating device has an electric energy source, the evaporator includes an electric heater, and the aerosol generating device or cartridge further includes an elongated capillary element for moving the liquid aerosol generating substrate from the liquid reservoir towards the electric heater, the capillary element having a first the end extending into the fluid reservoir and the second end opposite the ne the first end, where the electric heater is intended to heat the liquid aerosol forming substrate at the second end of the capillary element. When the heater is driven, the liquid substrate at the second end of the capillary element is vaporized by the heater, forming supersaturated steam.

According to a further particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating device has an electric energy source, the evaporator includes an electric heater, and the aerosol generating device further includes: a first end having a mouthpiece; the second end opposite the first end; an electric power source and an electrical circuit for connecting to an electric heater; a reservoir for storing a liquid aerosol forming substrate; and an elongated capillary element for moving the liquid aerosol forming substrate from the liquid reservoir towards the electric heater, the capillary element having a first part extending into the liquid reservoir and a second part opposite to the first part; where an electric heater is intended to heat a liquid aerosol forming substrate in a second part of the capillary element; where a liquid reservoir, capillary element and electric heater are located at the first end of the aerosol generating device; and where the electric power source and the electrical circuit are located at the second end of the aerosol generating device. The liquid reservoir, as well as the optional capillary element and heater, can be removed from the aerosol generating device as a single component.

According to a further particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating device has an electric energy source, and the evaporator includes an electric heater; an aerosol generating device includes an electric power source and an electrical circuit for connecting to an electric heater; and the cartridge includes a mouthpiece and an elongated capillary element for moving the liquid aerosol forming substrate from the liquid reservoir towards the electric heater, the capillary element having a first part extending into the liquid reservoir and a second part opposite to the first part where the electric heater is installed in the cartridge and Designed to heat the liquid aerosol forming substrate in the second part of the capillary element.

The liquid reservoir, as well as the optional capillary element and heater, can be removed from the aerosol generation system as a single component.

According to a further particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generation system has an electric energy source, the evaporator includes an electric heater, and the liquid reservoir includes an internal channel, wherein the electric heater passes through at least a portion of the internal channel when the device is used with the cartridge; and the device or cartridge further includes a capillary connecting device at least partially occupying the internal channel when the device is used with a heater to move the liquid aerosol forming substrate towards the electric heater. When the heater is driven, the liquid in the capillary coupling device is vaporized by the heater, forming supersaturated steam.

According to a further particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating device has an electric energy source, the evaporator includes an electric heater, and the liquid reservoir includes an internal channel, wherein the electric heater passes through at least a portion of the internal channel; the device includes an electric power source and an electrical circuit for connecting to an electric heater; and the cartridge includes a mouthpiece and a capillary connecting device, which at least partially occupies the internal channel to move the liquid aerosol forming substrate towards the electric heater; while the electric heater is installed in the cartridge.

The liquid reservoir and capillary coupling device, as well as the optional heater, can be removed from the aerosol generating device as a single component.

The liquid aerosol forming substrate preferably has physical properties, for example, boiling point and vapor pressure, suitable for use in an aerosol generating device, cartridge, or aerosol generating system. If the boiling point is excessively high, heating of the liquid becomes impossible, but if the boiling point is excessively low, the liquid may heat up excessively quickly. The liquid preferably includes tobacco-containing material, including volatile tobacco flavoring compounds that are released from the liquid during heating. Alternatively or in addition, the liquid may include non-tobacco material. The liquid may include aqueous solutions, non-aqueous solvents such as ethanol, plant extracts, nicotine, natural or artificial flavorings, or any combination thereof. Preferably, the liquid further includes an aerosol forming substance that promotes the formation of a dense and stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol forming substances are glycerol and propylene glycol.

The aerosol generating device or aerosol generating system may be electrically powered and may further include a power source. The power source may be an AC power source or a DC power source. Preferably, the electric power source is a battery. The aerosol generating device or aerosol generating system may further include an electrical circuit. According to one embodiment, the electrical circuit includes a sensor for detecting air flow, which indicates that the smoker is taking a puff. If an air inlet having an air flow sensor is provided as part of the secondary air flow direction, the sensor can be optionally installed. In such a case, the electrical circuit is preferably intended to direct an electric current pulse to the evaporator when the sensor detects that the smoker is taking a puff. Preferably, the time period of the electric current pulse is pre-set depending on the desired amount of liquid for evaporation. An electrical circuit is preferably programmed for this purpose. Alternatively, the electrical circuit may include a manually operated switch so that the smoker begins to puff. Preferably, the time period of the electric current pulse is pre-set depending on the desired amount of liquid for evaporation. An electrical circuit is preferably programmed for this purpose.

Preferably, the aerosol generating device or cartridge or aerosol generating system includes a housing. Preferably, the housing is oblong. If the aerosol generating device or cartridge includes an elongated capillary element, the longitudinal axis of the capillary element and the longitudinal axis of the housing can be substantially parallel. The housing may include a shell and a mouthpiece. In this case, all components may be contained in the shell or mouthpiece. According to one embodiment, the housing includes a removable insert. The removable insert may include a liquid reservoir, a capillary element, and an evaporator. Alternatively, the removable insert may include a fluid reservoir, a capillary coupling device, and an evaporator. According to this embodiment, these parts of the aerosol generating device can be removed from the housing as a single component. This may be useful, for example, to replenish or replace a fluid reservoir.

The housing may include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing one or more of the above materials, or thermoplastics that are suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, for example polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. The preferred material is light and non-brittle.

Preferably, the aerosol generating device and cartridge are portable, including individually and in combination. Preferably, the aerosol generating device may be reused by a smoker. Preferably, the cartridge is ejected by the smoker, for example, when the liquid contained in the liquid reservoir runs out. The aerosol generating device and cartridge can together constitute an aerosol generating system, which is a smoking system and which can have a size comparable to that of a traditional cigar or cigarette. The smoking system may have a total length of from about 30 mm to about 150 mm. The smoking system may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 30 mm. According to this embodiment, each air vent or nozzle may have a diameter of less than or approximately equal to 0.4 mm. The aerosol that the aerosol generation system forms may have an average particle size of less than about 1.5 microns, or more preferably less than about 1.0 microns, or even more preferably less than about 0.7 microns.

Preferably, the aerosol generation system is a smoking system having an electrical energy source. The present invention provides an aerosol generating device comprising: a reservoir for storing an aerosol forming substrate; an evaporator for heating the aerosol forming substrate to form an aerosol; multiple air vents or nozzles; and at least one air outlet, wherein the air vents or nozzles and the air outlet are intended to determine the direction of the air flow between the air vents or nozzles and the air outlet; where each of the plurality of air vents or nozzles is an opening for supplying air towards the vicinity of the evaporator, so as to control the particle size of the aerosol, and air vents or nozzles supply air to the vicinity of the evaporator in more than one direction.

The distinguishing features that are described with respect to one aspect of the present invention may be applicable to another aspect of the present invention.

The present invention will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, including:

FIG. 1 represents an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross section along line II-II of FIG. one;

FIG. 3 is an alternative cross section along line II-II of FIG. one;

FIG. 4 represents an aerosol generation system according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 5 is a cross section along line V-V of FIG. four.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an aerosol generation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is schematic in nature. In particular, the presented components do not have to correspond to the actual scale, including individually or in relation to each other. Although not specifically represented in FIG. 1, an aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generating device, which is preferably designed for multiple use, in combination with a cartridge, which is preferably designed for single use. In FIG. 1, the system is a smoking system having an electrical energy source. The smoking system 101 includes a housing 103 having a first end, which is a cartridge 105, and a second end, which is a device 107. The device contains an electric power source in the form of a battery 109 (shown schematically in FIG. 1) and an electrical circuit 111 (also shown schematically in Fig. 1). The cartridge contains a reservoir 113 containing liquid 115, an elongated capillary element 117, and an evaporator in the form of a heater 119. According to this embodiment, the heater 119 is a coil heater surrounding the capillary element 117. It should be noted that the heater is only shown schematically in FIG. 1. According to an exemplary embodiment, which is presented in FIG. 1, one end of the capillary element 117 extends into the liquid reservoir 113, and the other end of the capillary element 117 is surrounded by a heater 119. The heater is connected to the electrical circuit 111 and the battery 109 through connections (not shown) that may extend along the outer surface of the liquid reservoir 113, although this is not shown in FIG. 1. The aerosol generation system 101 also includes a plurality of air vents 121, an air outlet 123 at the end of the cartridge and an aerosol forming chamber 125. The direction of the air flow 127 from the air vents 121 to the air outlet 123 through the aerosol forming chamber 125 is indicated by dashed arrows.

In use, the device operates as follows. The liquid 115 is transferred under the action of capillary forces from the liquid reservoir 113 from the end of the capillary element 117, which extends into the liquid reservoir, to the other end of the capillary element 117, which is surrounded by a heater 119. When the smoker draws air through the air outlet 123, atmospheric air is drawn through the air vents openings 121. According to the embodiment of FIG. 1, a puff detecting device in an electrical circuit 111 detects a puff and drives a heater 119. A battery 109 energizes a heater 119 to heat the end of a capillary element 117 that is surrounded by a heater. The liquid at this end of the capillary element 117 is vaporized by the heater 119, and supersaturated steam forms. At the same time, the evaporating liquid is replaced by additional liquid moving along the capillary element 117 under the action of capillary forces (this is sometimes called the term "pumping action"). The supersaturated steam generated is mixed and carried into the air stream 127 from the air vents 121. In the aerosol forming chamber 125, the steam condenses to form an inhaled aerosol that is carried towards the air outlet 123 and into the smoker's mouth. According to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the electrical circuit 111 is preferably programmable and can be used to control the operation of the aerosol generating device.

FIG. 2 is a cross section along line II-II of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is schematic in nature. In particular, the presented components do not have to correspond to the actual scale, including individually or in relation to each other. According to this embodiment, in the aerosol generation system 101, the aerosol generating device and cartridge have a circular cross section. FIG. 2 represents a housing 103 at the end of the cartridge, capillary element 117, and air vents 121. Heater 119 is not shown in FIG. 2 for simplicity. According to the embodiment of FIG. 2, there are two sets containing three air vents 121 that are evenly distributed along the circumference of the aerosol generating device. One set of air vents 121 is longitudinally separated from the other set (see FIG. 1). Each air vent 121 is intended to supply air directly to the surface of the capillary element 117, as represented by the dashed arrows in FIG. 2. Since the aerosol generation system 101 has a circular cross-section, air passing through the air vents 121 enters in a radial direction and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation system 101. Since the air vents 121 are distributed along the circumference of the aerosol generation system, each air vent 121 supplies air to the vicinity of the evaporator in a different direction than at least some of the other air vents 121. It has been found that the embodiment of FIG. 2 is preferred since air having a high speed enters the surface of the capillary element, and the cooling rate is substantially increased.

FIG. 3 is an alternative cross section along line II-II of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is schematic in nature. In particular, the presented components do not have to correspond to the actual scale, including individually or in relation to each other. According to this embodiment, the aerosol generation system 101 and the aerosol generating device and cartridge have a circular cross section. In the same way as FIG. 2, FIG. 3 represents a housing 103 at the end of the cartridge, capillary element 117, and air vents 121. Heater 119 is not shown in FIG. 3 for simplicity. According to the embodiment of FIG. 3 there are two sets containing three air vents 121, which are evenly distributed along the circumference of the aerosol generating device. One set of air vents 121 is longitudinally separated from the other set (see FIG. 1). Each air vent 121 is designed to supply air in the direction along the surface of the capillary element 117, as represented by the dashed arrows in FIG. 3. Since the aerosol generation system 101 has a circular cross-section, the air passing through the air vents 121 enters in a tangential direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation system 101. Since the air vents 121 are distributed along the circumference of the aerosol generating device, each air vent 121 delivers air to the vicinity of the evaporator in a different direction than at least some of the other air vents 121. It has been found that the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 is preferred since air having a high speed enters the surface of the capillary element. This significantly increases the cooling rate, and at the same time reduces to a minimum the cooling of the heater 119.

As shown in FIG. 1, 2, and 3, each of the air vents 121 is a small diameter hole. When a smoker draws air through an aerosol generating device at the air outlet 123, air is drawn in through the air vents 121. Due to the small diameter of the air vents 121, air is drawn in through them at high speed. A high-speed air jet is drawn through the air vents 121 directly to the vicinity of the heater 119. This increases the cooling of the supersaturated steam to form an aerosol. Thus, the high-velocity air entering the vicinity of the heater 119 controls the formation of aerosol and, in particular, the particle size of the aerosol. It was found that an increase in cooling leads to a decrease in the average size of aerosol droplets and to a narrowing of the interval of sizes of aerosol droplets.

As shown in FIG. 1, 2, and 3, each of the air vents 121 is an opening having a small diameter or cross section. When a smoker draws air through an aerosol generating device at air outlet 123, air is drawn in through the air vents. Due to the small cross-sectional area of each vent 121, air is directed to the vicinity of the heater 119 and to the capillary element 117 at high speed. The high velocity air flow in the aerosol forming chamber 125 increases the cooling rate, and as a result, the average particle size in the aerosol decreases. Preferably, there is a small distance between the air vents 121 and the heater 119 and the capillary element 117. This means that there is little possibility of slowing the air or the formation of complex turbulent flows. According to this embodiment, the air vents 121 are symmetrically located around the heater 119 and the capillary element 117. This means that the air vents 121 supply air to the vicinity of the heater 119 and to the capillary element 117 in more than one direction. The symmetrical arrangement also leads to a relatively uniform air flow in the entire aerosol forming chamber 125 and approximately uniform cooling on all sides of the heater 119. This reduces the size range of the particles in the aerosol.

In FIG. 2 and 3 are two sets containing three air vents. However, any suitable number and pattern of air vents may be provided depending on the desired aerosol characteristics and the resistance to retraction of the aerosol generating device. In addition, all air vents may have different sizes or shapes, or be designed to supply air flow in different directions.

The capillary element 117 may include any suitable material or combination of materials that can conduct the liquid aerosol forming substrate 115 towards the heater 119. Examples of suitable capillary materials include sponge or foam, ceramic or graphite based materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamed metal or plastic materials, fibrous material, for example, made from spun or extruded fibers, such as cellulose acetate, polyester or bonded polyolefin, polyethylene, terylene or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramic fibers. The capillary material may have any suitable capillarity, so that it can be used for liquids having different physical properties.

FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of an aerosol generation system according to a further embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is schematic in nature. In particular, the presented components do not have to correspond to the actual scale, including individually or in relation to each other. Although not specifically represented in FIG. 4, the aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generating device, which is preferably designed for multiple use, in combination with a cartridge, which is preferably designed for single use. In FIG. 4, the system is a smoking system having an electrical energy source. The smoking system 401 includes a housing 403 having a first end, which is a cartridge 405, and a second end, which is a device 407. The device has an electric power source in the form of a battery 409 (shown schematically in FIG. 4) and an electrical circuit 411 (also shown schematically in Fig. 4). The cartridge contains a reservoir 413, in which the liquid 415 is located. The liquid reservoir 413 includes an inner channel 416, in which the capillary connecting device 417 is located. The cartridge 419 is further installed in the cartridge, which extends into the inner channel 416 of the liquid reservoir 413 and is preferably located in contact with capillary connecting device 417. According to this embodiment, the heater 419 includes a coil heater conveniently located in the inner channel 416. It should be noted that the heater is only shown schematically in FIG. 4. Heater 419 is connected to electrical circuit 411 and to battery 409 via connections (not shown). At the end of the cartridge, an air inlet tube 420 is additionally installed, which extends into the inner channel 416 and creates a path for directing the air flow. The air inlet tube 420 includes a plurality of air vents 421. The aerosol generation system 401 also includes at least one air inlet 422, an air outlet 423 at the end of the cartridge, and an aerosol forming chamber 425. The direction of the air flow 427 from the air inlets 422, along the air inlet tube 420, through the air vents 421 and into the air outlet 423 through the aerosol forming chamber 425, are represented by dashed arrows.

In use, the device operates as follows. The liquid 415 is guided by capillary forces from the liquid tank 413 from the side of the capillary connecting device 417, which is in contact with the liquid in the liquid tank, to the side of the capillary connecting device 417, which is in contact with or adjacent to the heater 419. When a smoker draws air through the air outlet 423, atmospheric air is drawn in through the air inlets 422, along the air inlet pipe 420 and through the air vents 421. According to the embodiment of FIG. 5, a puff detecting device in an electrical circuit 411 detects a puff and drives a heater 419. The battery 409 energizes a heater 419, which heats the liquid in the capillary coupler 417. The liquid in the capillary coupler 417 is vaporized by the heater 419, and supersaturated steam is generated. At the same time, the evaporating liquid is replaced by additional liquid entering through the capillary connecting device 417 from the liquid reservoir 413 under the action of capillary forces. The resulting supersaturated vapor is mixed and carried off in the air stream 427 from the air vents 421. In the aerosol forming chamber 425, the vapor condenses to form an inhaled aerosol that is carried towards the air outlet 423 and into the smoker's mouth. According to the embodiment of FIG. 5, the electrical circuit 411 is preferably programmable and can be used to control the operation of the aerosol forming device.

FIG. 5 is a cross section along line V-V of FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is schematic in nature. In particular, the presented components do not have to correspond to the actual scale, including individually or in relation to each other. According to this embodiment, the aerosol generating system 401 as well as the aerosol generating device and cartridge have a circular cross section. FIG. 5 represents a housing 403, a fluid reservoir 413, an inner channel 416, and a capillary coupling device 417. A heater 419 is not shown in FIG. 5 for simplicity. FIG. 5 also represents an air inlet tube 420 extending into the inner channel 416. According to the embodiment of FIG. 5 there are three sets containing three air vents 421 that are evenly distributed along the circumference of the air inlet tube 420. Each set of air vents 421 is longitudinally separated from another set (see FIG. 1). Each air vent 421 is provided for supplying air to the capillary connecting device 417, as represented by dashed arrows in FIG. 4. Since the aerosol generation system 401 has a circular cross-section, air passing through the air vents 421 enters in the radial direction and is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation system 101. Since the air vents 421 are distributed along the circumference of the air inlet tube 420, each air vent 421 supplies air to the vicinity of the evaporator in a different direction than at least some of the other air vents 421. It has been found that the embodiment of FIG. 5 is preferred since air having a high speed enters the capillary connecting device, and the cooling rate is substantially increased.

As shown in FIG. 4 and 5, each of the air vents 421 is an orifice having a small diameter or cross section. When a smoker draws in air through the air outlet 423, air is drawn in through the air vents. Due to the small cross-sectional area of each air vent 421, the air stream is directed toward the region of the heater 419 and into the capillary connecting device 417 at high speed. The high air flow rate in the aerosol forming chamber 425 increases the cooling rate, and as a result, the average particle size in the aerosol decreases. Preferably, the distance between the air vents 421 and the heater 419 and the capillary connecting device 417 is small. This means that there is little chance of slowing the air or the formation of complex turbulent flows. According to this embodiment, the air vents 421 are symmetrically arranged around the air inlet tube 420. This means that the air vents 421 supply air to the region of the heater 419 and to the capillary element 417 in more than one direction. The symmetrical arrangement also leads to a relatively uniform airflow throughout the aerosol forming chamber 425 and to approximately uniform cooling on all parts of the heater 419. This reduces the size range of the particles in the aerosol.

In FIG. 5 shows three sets containing three air vents in the air inlet tube. However, any suitable number and pattern of air vents may be provided depending on the desired aerosol characteristics and retraction resistance. In addition, all air vents may have various sizes or shapes, or be intended to supply air flow in different directions.

The capillary coupling device 417 may include any suitable material or combination of materials that are capable of conducting a liquid aerosol forming substrate 415 towards the heater 419. Examples of suitable capillary materials include sponge or foam, ceramic or graphite based materials in the form of fibers or sintered powders, foamed metal or plastic materials, fibrous material, for example, made from spun or extruded fibers, such as ac tattsellyuloznye, polyester or related polyolefin, polyethylene, terilenovye or polypropylene fibers, nylon fibers or ceramic fibers. The capillary material may have any suitable capillarity, so that it can be used for liquids having different physical properties.

FIG. 1-5 represent an aerosol generation system according to embodiments of the present invention. However, numerous other examples are possible. The aerosol generation system should simply include an evaporator for heating the liquid aerosol forming substrate, a plurality of air vents for supplying air in more than one direction to the vicinity of the evaporator, and at least one air outlet, these components may be contained in the device or cartridge. For example, the system does not have to be electrically powered. For example, the system does not have to be a smoking system. In addition, the system may not include a heater, and in this case, another device may be present to heat the liquid aerosol forming substrate. For example, capillary material of a different configuration may be present. For example, a puff detection system need not be installed. Instead, the system can be operated manually, for example, by a smoker who uses a switch when puffing is performed. For example, you can change the overall shape and size of the case.

Preferably, the cartridge is intended for single use and for use in combination with an aerosol generating device that is designed for multiple use. The cartridge can be refilled or replaced when fluid is consumed. Thus, when the liquid aerosol forming substrate in the cartridge is consumed, the cartridge can be removed and replaced with a new cartridge, or the empty cartridge can be replenished. However, the aerosol generating device may not be designed to work in conjunction with a separate cartridge. Instead, the aerosol generating device may include or comprise a liquid aerosol forming substrate in the tank, and also include an evaporator that heats the liquid aerosol forming substrate to form the aerosol, a plurality of air vents and at least one air outlet. In addition, the aerosol generating device may include a power source and an electrical circuit.

According to one particular embodiment, the aerosol generating device is a portable smoking device, the size of which is comparable to the size of a traditional cigar or cigarette. The smoking device may have a total length of from about 30 mm to about 150 mm. The smoking device may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 30 mm. According to this embodiment, each air vent may have a diameter of less than or approximately equal to 0.4 mm. According to one embodiment, in which the puff duration is about 2 seconds and the total puff volume is 55 ml (i.e., the puff flow rate is about 27.5 ml / s), the high air speed through the air vents can be 10 m / s or from 10 m / s to 30 m / s. The characteristics of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device will depend on the liquid aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol may have an average particle size of less than about 1.5 microns, or more preferably less than about 1.0 microns. According to one example, in which the aerosol forming substrate is propylene glycol, the aerosol may have an average particle size of less than about 0.7 microns.

As discussed above, according to the present invention, an aerosol generating device, cartridge, or system includes air vents that provide high air velocity in the vicinity of the evaporator. This leads to an increase in cooling, and as a result, the average particle size decreases, a more uniform air flow leads to a narrowing of the particle size interval in the aerosol, and accelerated aerosol formation leads to a potential reduction in the size of the aerosol generating device or system. Embodiments of the porous barrier are described with respect to FIG. 1-5. The distinguishing features that are described with respect to one embodiment may also be applicable to another embodiment.

Claims (32)

1. An aerosol generating device comprising: an evaporator for heating the aerosol forming substrate; many air vents; and at least one air outlet, wherein the air vents and the air outlet are intended to determine an air flow direction between the air vents and the air outlet, wherein each of the plurality of air vents is an air inlet intended to direct air to the vicinity of the evaporator in a direction across the surface of the evaporator and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device, so as to adjust the particle size of the aerosol. 2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the air inlet openings direct air in more than one direction. 3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the air vents includes a curved portion. 4. The aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, comprising a housing, the air inlets being formed in the housing to allow atmospheric air to be drawn in from outside the device through the air inlets. 5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, in which each of the air inlets has a diameter of less than or approximately equal to 0.4 mm 6. The aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, in which, at a flow rate through the air outlet of 27.5 ml / s, the air flow through each of the air inlets is from 10 to 30 m / s. 7. The aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, further including: a reservoir for storing an aerosol forming substrate; and an elongated capillary element for moving the aerosol forming substrate from the reservoir towards the evaporator, the capillary element having a first end extending into the reservoir and a second end opposite the first end, where the evaporator is designed to heat the aerosol forming substrate at the second end of the capillary. 8. The aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, further comprising a secondary air inlet and an air flow sensor for measuring air flow through the air inlet, wherein the secondary air flow direction is determined between the secondary air inlet and the air outlet. 9. Cartridge, including: a reservoir for storing an aerosol forming substrate; an evaporator for heating the aerosol forming substrate; many air vents; and at least one air outlet moreover, the air vents and the air outlet are designed to determine the direction of the air flow between the air vents and the air outlet, and each of the plurality of air vents is an air inlet for directing air to the vicinity of the evaporator in a direction across the surface of the evaporator and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge, so as to adjust the particle size of the aerosol. 10. The cartridge according to claim 9, in which the air inlet openings supply air in more than one direction. 11. The cartridge according to claim 9 or 10, comprising a housing, wherein the air inlets are formed in the housing to allow atmospheric air to be drawn in from outside the device through the air inlets. 12. The cartridge of claim 9 or 10, wherein each of the air inlets has a diameter of less than or approximately equal to 0.4 mm. 13. The cartridge according to claim 9 or 10, wherein at a flow rate through the air outlet of 27.5 ml / s, the air flow through each of the air inlets is from 10 to 30 m / s. 14. The cartridge according to claim 9 or 10, in which the evaporator contains an electric heater for heating the aerosol forming substrate, and this electric heater can be connected to a source of electricity. 15. Aerosol generation system, including: an evaporator for heating the aerosol forming substrate; many air vents; and at least one air outlet moreover, the air vents and the air outlet are designed to determine the direction of the air flow between the air vents and the air outlet; and each of the plurality of air vents includes an opening for supplying air towards the vicinity of the evaporator and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the system, so as to adjust the particle size of the aerosol, and the air vents directing air to the vicinity of the evaporator in more than one direction, and each of the air vents has a diameter of less than or approximately equal to 0.4 mm.

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